– First, there should be a sticker on the top of the battery that shows the month and year of either manufacturing or installation date. If the battery is more than 5 years old, you may want to consider replacing it.

– Second, there are two terminals (or posts) either on top of the battery or on the side. These terminals should be free of a bluish-white powdery substance – this is corrosion and will hurt your battery’s performance. You can purchase battery terminal spray at any auto parts store. Just spray it on, let it sit for a few minutes, then wash it off. The water will not harm the battery or its related parts.

– Third, there will be wire cables (one red, one black) that clamp onto or screw into the terminals or posts. These should be in good condition – free from corrosion and/or rust, they should not be frayed, etc. If any of these symptoms are present, please consider replacing them.